GEAR JRNL

Romanceis hard to come by in person these days. Our group chats are full of dispatches from our single friends on the front lines of war (a.k.a. awkward first dates), with matches who won't text back or weirdos who'll at least make for great stories later. The ladies yearn forchalanceor for someone tomatch their freak. And why not? Everyone deserves a little romance—but sometimes it's easier to find onscreen than in real life. That's where romance movies come in.

Hollywood loves a good love story, whether it's a tear-jerking Old Hollywood melodrama or a heartwarming '90srom-com. These are the kind of films that inspire and transport us—and sometimes even distract us when that one person leaves us on read. Whether or not you're searching for your Mr. Darcy, the titles in the list below are all great picks for your next movie night. Whether you invite a date over to watch it is your call.

With contributions from Claire Stern Milch, Madison Feller, and Juliana Ukiomogbe.

When Harry Met Sally(1989)

"Meg Ryan. Billy Crystal. Rob Reiner. Cable-knit sweaters. A fake orgasm at Katz's Deli. Nora Ephron did not play around when she wrote this perfect rom-com about whether a man and a woman can really be friends without their feelings getting in the way. Over 30 years later, we'll still have what she's having."—Erica Gonzales, deputy editor, digital content

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In the Mood for Love(2000)

"Wong Kar-wai's moody, sensual masterpiece stars Tony Leung and Maggie Cheung as two neighbors who become entangled after learning of their respective partners' affairs. Beautifully shot and acted, this exploration of intimacy and longing is both a feast for the eyes and a punch in the gut."—EG

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Titanic(1997)

"The Door Debate aside, James Cameron's film is beloved for giving us the epic romance between Jack (Leonardo DiCaprio) and Rose (Kate Winslet), two lovers aboard the doomed Titanic. Following its 25th anniversary, our hearts still go on and on for this film."—Lauren Puckett-Pope, senior culture editor

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Love & Basketball(2000)

"Sanaa Lathan and Omar Epps are an unforgettable duo as Monica and Quincy, two childhood friends who love basketball, and eventually, each other. Gina Prince-Bythewood's 2000s classic follows the pair through the years as they grow up and apart, but ultimately find each other again."—EG

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Casablanca(1943)

"Set during World War II, Casablanca club owner Rick Blaine (Humphrey Bogart) finds his former lover Ilsa (Ingrid Bergman) and her husband on the run from Germans. Conflicted by the run-in, he must decide whether to help them flee the country or rekindle his romance. Here's looking at you, kid."—EG

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While You Were Sleeping(1995)

"There are rom-coms, and then there'sWhile You Were Sleeping. For the uninitiated, the criminally underrated 1995 film stars Sandra Bullock as a lonely train token collector in Chicago who develops a shameless crush on one of her regular passengers, Peter (a pre-Sandy Cohen Peter Gallagher); saves his life when he slips and falls onto the tracks; then pretends to be engaged to him while he's in a coma. Still following? During the time he's unconscious (a.k.a. while he is sleeping), she falls in love with Peter's brother, Jack, played by the impossibly charming Bill Pullman, instead. Come for the sweet and endearing holiday fun, stay for Joe Jr."—Claire Stern Milch, digital director

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Moonlight(2016)

"Although its Best Picture spotlight was stolen in memorable fashion by other romance contenderLa La Land,Moonlightremains one of the best films I've seen in the past decade, and among the best of director Barry Jenkins' work. The love story between Chiron and Kevin is deeply affecting, pulled along by career-defining performances from a cast including Mahershala Ali and Naomie Harris."—LPP

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How Stella Got Her Groove Back(1998)

"I'll watch any movie that Angela Bassett is in, andHow Stella Got Her Groove Back, which is based on the novel by Terry McMillan, is probably one of my favorites. Bassett plays Stella, a highly successful career woman who travels to Jamaica for vacation and falls in love with a man named Winston (charmingly played by Taye Diggs)."—JU

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The Notebook(2004)

"Adapted from Nicholas Sparks's novel of the same name, this modern classic follows the sprawling love story of Noah and Allie, which spans from their teenage years to old age. Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams make an incredible pair in this tear-jerker."—EG

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Past Lives(2023)

"Have you ever been emotionally wrecked by two hands almost touching on a subway pole? Or how about (spoiler alert) two people almost kissing on a sidewalk? I have, and I'll forever be obsessed with Celine Song'sPast Lives—which tells the story of Nora (Greta Lee) reconnecting with Hae Sung, her childhood love (Teo Yoo) from her home country of Korea—because of it."—Madison Feller, former digital deputy editor

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Pride & Prejudice(2005)

"Kiera Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen are Elizabeth Bennett and Mr. Darcy in Joe Wright's magnificent adaptation of Jane Austen's famous story. Their chemistry burns through the screen, whether it's in a rain-drenched confession of love or the mere brushing of their hands."—EG

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Crazy, Stupid, Love(2011)

"Certain movies never get old no matter how many times you watch them.Crazy, Stupid, Lovefalls into that category. The story follows various couples—Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone; Steve Carell and Julianne Moore—and the ebbs and flows of their relationships. Come for the laughs and stay for the stacked cast."—JU

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Boomerang(1992)

"In addition to being a classic '90s romantic comedy about love and missed connections,Boomerangboasts one of the most stacked casts of all time. Eddie Murphy, Robin Givens, Halle Berry, Grace Jones, Eartha Kitt, Martin Lawrence, and David Alan Grier all star in this witty, stylish film that still feels fresh today." —Juliana Ukiomogbe, contributor

Watch Now on MGM+

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Portrait of a Lady on Fire(2019)

"In 1770s France, a stubborn bride-to-be and the artist commissioned to make her wedding portrait (Noémie Merlant and Adèle Haenel) fall into a passionate romance as her nuptials loom. By the end of Céline Sciamma's gorgeous film, page 28 will forever be ingrained in your mind. (If you know, you know.)"—EG

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If Beale Street Could Talk(2018)

"Another Barry Jenkins masterwork,If Beale Street Could Talkis adapted from James Baldwin's novel of the same name, and follows a radiant KiKi Layne and Stephan James as Tish and Fonny, long-time friends turned lovers who face the turmoil of a racist wrongful conviction."—LPP

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To All the Boys I've Loved Before(2018)

"Sixteen Candleswalked soTo All the Boys I've Loved Beforecould run. The Netflix adaptation of the YA novel by Jenny Han is the best teen movie in years, with a diverse cast to match. There's something about seeing John Corbett as a widower slicing kalbi for his half-Korean kids that will tug at your heartstrings in just the right way, whether you're Asian or not. Justice for all token minority characters, and specifically Long Duk Dong."—CSM

Watch Now on Netflix

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Before Sunrise(1995)

"When American tourist Jesse (Ethan Hawke) and French student Celine (Julie Delpy) strike up a conversation on the train, sparks fly instantly and he invites her to spend the day with him in Vienna before his flight the next morning. Director Richard Linklater knows how to play with time, and in this cult classic, he explores the whirlwind of young love with a looming expiration date. Of course, fans know that it doesn't really end there; the trilogy continues with Before Sunset and Before Midnight."—EG

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Cinema Paradiso(1988)

"One of the most famous Italian films of all time—and, frankly, one of the most famous films of all time, period—Cinema Paradisois a love story both between two people, and between a filmmaker and cinema. Written and directed by Giuseppe Tornatore, the story follows 8-year-old Salvatore as he befriends a projectionist who encourages him to love the craft of directing—and, eventually, a woman named Elena Mendola."—LPP

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Love Jones

"Has anyone ever looked cooler on film than Nia Long and Larenz Tate do inLove Jones? The pair star as artsy Chicago couple Nina and Darius, as the film follows their romance through hazy poetry readings, long-distance struggles, dating mishaps, and sultry nights out at smoky nightclubs. The jazz-infused score is everything."—EG

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Mississippi Masala(1992)

"Sarita Choudhury stars as Mina, a young woman whose Indian family seeks refuge in the States after fleeing a dictatorship in Uganda. In Mississippi, their new home, she catches the eye of handsome carpet cleaner Demetrius (Denzel Washington), and the two fall for each other despite their families' disapproval of their relationship."—EG

Watch Now on The Criterion Channel

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Dirty Dancing(1987)

"'Nobody puts baby in a corner' might be the line best remembered from 1987 classic Dirty Dancing, but there's a much better one that captures the spirit and sweeping romance between Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grae's dance duo Johnny and Baby: 'I'm scared of walking out of this room and never feeling the rest of my whole life the way I feel when I'm with you.' Runner-up is 'I carried a watermelon,' but hey, I digress."—LPP

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The Umbrellas of Cherbourg(1964)

"A feast for the eyes and ears, this 1964 French classic is a musical romance following a young couple separated by the Algerian war. It's brimming with gorgeous pastels and stars the iconic Catherine Deneuve in her breakout role."—EG

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Materialists(2025)

"As one of the year's most talked-about movies,Materialistsfollows Lucy (Dakota Johnson), a New York City matchmaker who begins to fall back in love with her broke ex, John (Chris Evans). But things get complicated when Lucy meets a suave millionaire named Harry (Pedro Pascal). Soon, she's forced to confront the age-old question: can love be bought?"—JU

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West Side Story(1961)

"This 1950s New York take onRomeo and Julietfollows star-crossed sweethearts Maria and Tony, whose ties to rival gangs threaten their fast-moving romance. A 10-time Oscar winner, the iconic musical was remade for the screen 60 years later by Steven Spielberg, who featured Latinx actors in his cast."—LPP

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Rye Lane(2023)

"David Jonsson (Industry) and Vivian Oparah (Teen Spirit) are delightfully funny as two young Brits who unexpectedly spend the day together as they help each other through their respective breakups. Charming gems like these prove the future of the rom-com is in good hands."—EG

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The Age of Innocence(1993)

"A Martin Scorsese period romance? Oh, yes. Set in Gilded Age New York, lawyer Newland Archer (Daniel Day-Lewis) is engaged to be married to May Welland (Winona Ryder) and offers to help her cousin, Countess Olenska (Michelle Pfeiffer), as she settles into town after fleeing her ruined marriage. What starts off as an innocent friendship turns into something much more in this Edith Wharton adaptation. Archer's glove scene walked so Mr. Darcy's hand flex could run. You'll know it when you see it."—EG

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Up(2009)

"It only takes a few notes of that iconic theme song to get misty-eyed. This Pixar classic isn't just a family adventure with talking dogs and floating houses; it's also a sweet portrayal of a lasting love. The grumpy-on-the-outside-sweet-on-the-inside Mr. Fredricksen (Ed Asner) shows us how someone can honor a partner and the life they've built together long after they've passed."—EG

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Love, Brooklyn(2025)

"André Holland,Nicole Beharie, and DeWanda Wise in a complex love triangle? Sign us up! Set against the backdrop of an ever-changing Brooklyn, the tender and romantic story follows Roger (Holland), a writer who finds himself torn between two women: his former lover Casey (Beharie) and someone he's just recently met, Nicole (Wise). Have your box of tissues on standby."—JU

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It's a Wonderful Life(1946)

"Already a Christmas classic but deserving to become a favorite in the year-round romance rotation,It's A Wonderful Lifefeatures some of the most memorable lines of the genre. ("George Bailey, I'll love you 'till the day I die" being a personal favorite.) Sentimental but never saccharine, it remains one of the most beloved films ever made, 76 years after its release."—LPP

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We Live in Time(2004)

"Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh star as Tobias and Almut in this tear-jerking, years-spanning romance from John Crowley, director of Brooklyn. The film shows the couple from their chance meeting through their major life milestones, including Almut's battle with cancer. Grab your tissues for this one."—EG

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The Idea of You(2024)

"Anne Hathaway, we have missed you in rom-coms. In this adaptation of Robinne Lee's book, the Oscar winner plays a 40-year-old mom and art curator who, while bringing her daughter to Coachella, strikes up a romance with a 24-year-old boy band heartthrob. It may or may not be a One Direction fanfiction, and the songs are catchy as hell."—EG

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Splitsville(2025)

"What happens when a newly separated couple becomes entangled in their friends' open marriage? The answer is the sharp romantic comedySplitsville, starringDakota Johnson,Adria Arjona, Michael Angelo Covino, and Kyle Marvin. Come for the incisive exploration of relationships in the modern age, and stay for Nicholas Braun's delightfully offbeat turn as a kooky magician." —JU

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The Taste of Things(2023)

"Juliette Binoche and Benoît Magimel star in this gorgeous French romance between a cook and her boss, whose feelings for each other have been quietly simmering for over 20 years. Directed by Tran Anh Hung, it's a touching love story with some of the most magnificent shots of food I've ever seen."—EG

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His Girl Friday(1940)

"Cary Grant and Rosalind Russell are a snappy, quick-witted pair in this iconic 1940 rom-com. Grant plays a newspaper editor who learns his ex (Russell) is engaged and tries to goad her away from boring domestic life by assigning her a juicy reporting assignment. Their playful chemistry and lightning-fast dialogue make them an irresistible duo."—EG

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Call Me By Your Name(2017)

"In Timothée Chalamet's breakout role, he stars as Elio, a 17-year-old staying at his family's home for a summer in picturesque Italy. That's where he meets Oliver, a grad student and his father's intern, who sweeps him off his feet as they embark on a romance that will change them forever. Directed by Luca Guadagnino, it's a visual masterpiece that ends with an emotional gut punch."—EG

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The Photograph(2020)

"When a renowned photographer (Chanté Adams) passes away, her daughter Mae (Issa Rae) discovers her archive that sends her on a journey into her mother's complicated past, and into an unexpected romance with a journalist, Michael (LaKeith Stanfield). Helmed by writer-director Stella Meghie,The Photographis a lush and intimate love story that deserves a top spot on your watch list."—JU

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Notting Hill(1999)

"I'm just a girl, standing in front of my TV, asking young Hugh Grant to love me. The British heartthrob stars as a bookshop owner who gets swept into a high-profile romance when an uber-famous American actress (played by Julia Roberts) enters his store and becomes more than a customer. Roberts's '90s wardrobe here is just as memorable as her quotable lines."—EG

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Brokeback Mountain(2005)

"Jake Gyllenhaal and Heath Ledger are two sheep herders in Wyoming who strike up an unlikely romance on the job. Though they move on to different relationships, they can't seem to quit each other for over two decades. This iconic Western love story was directed by Ang Lee."—EG

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Sylvie's Love(2020)

"As if you need a reason to watch Tessa Thompson on your screen. Considered one of the best 'underseen romances' by Letterboxd,Sylvie's Lovefollows a couple in 1950s Harlem whose time together is cut short when he, a saxophone player, is sent abroad to play with his band. When they cross paths again years later in New York, old flames are reignited."—EG

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About Time(2013)

"Rachel McAdams has starred in many a time-traveling love story. In this one, she appears opposite Domhnall Gleeson, who plays Tim Lake, a man who discovers the men in his family can time-travel. Though it starts off feeling like a rom-com, you'll be reaching for tissues by the end. Don't say we didn't warn you."—EG

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Sleepless in Seattle(1993)

"Meg Ryan, Tom Hanks, and Nora Ephron are an unbeatable trio. (Make this one a double feature with You've Got Mail.) In this romance, which unfolds over the airwaves, Hanks is a father and recent widower who reluctantly calls into a radio show to possibly find the next love of his life. Ryan is a reporter on the other side of the country who hears the conversation, falls in love, and invites him to meet at the top of the Empire State Building. It's proof that no first date is too out-there!"—EG

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Season 24 is set to premiere on Sunday, Feb. 15, and will be the 450th episode during its run on FOX.

"The season premieres with its landmark 450th episode, when for the first time in the show's history, Lois and Stewie finally understand each other -- thanks to Brian's edibles -- and explore and try to explain their complicated relationship," according to theshow's description.

Family Guy premiered on Fox in January 1999, immediately following Super Bowl XXXIII. The rest of the first season aired months later, beginning in April 1999.

Here is what you need to know about the Season 24 premiere of "Family Guy."

More:New 'The Lincoln Lawyer' episodes are coming. Here's how to watch.

What time does Season 24 of 'Family Guy' premiere?

The new season of "Family Guy" is set to premiere with its 450th episode on Sunday, Feb. 15, at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT.

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More:'The Traitors' Season 4 new episode teases fallout. How to watch, time.

Where to watch Season 24 premiere of 'Family Guy?

The Season 24 premiere of "Family Guy" will be available on FOX on Sunday, Feb. 14 and will be available to stream on Hulu the next day.

Hulu offers a variety of plans to stream "Family Guy" and various other hit TV shows.

The least-expensive plan (which requires watching commercials) is $9.99 per month (or $99.99/year.) It provides access to Hulu's ad-supported streaming library. Students can get that plan for $1.99 per month, if eligible. You can get a free trial of Hulu, but you do need to sign up and submit payment details. (You won't be charged until the end of your trial period – the trial length is different depending on the subscription tier you choose.)

Other subscription options include Hulu bundled with Disney+, which costs $10.99 (with ads.) Bundled with Disney+ and ESPN+, the cost is $16.99 (with ads) or $19.99 (without ads.)

For more plans and prices,visit the Hulu website.

Fernando Cervantes Jr. is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach him at fernando.cervantes@usatodayco.com and follow him on X @fern_cerv_.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:'Family Guy' Season 24 premiere date, time, where to watch

James Van Der Beek/Instagram

NEED TO KNOW

• James Van Der Beek secured a down payment for his family's ranch in Austin, Texas, prior to his death

• He did it "with the help of friends through a trust so they could shift from rent to mortgage," his rep told PEOPLE

• The actor died at age 48 on Feb. 11 following a journey with stage 3 colorectal cancer

Prior to his death,James Van Der Beeksecured a down payment for the Texas ranch that he and his family had previously been renting.

His representative tells PEOPLE that before the actordied at age 48on Feb. 11 following a journey with stage 3 colorectal cancer, theDawson's Creekalum secured a down payment on theAustin ranch where he had been residingwith his wife,Kimberly Van Der Beek, and theirsix children.

"James secured down payment for the Texas ranch for the family with the help of friends through a trust so they could shift from rent to mortgage," the rep tells PEOPLE.

In 2020, James and Kimberlypermanently left Beverly Hills, Calif., andrelocated to Austin with their kids: daughters Olivia, 15, Annabel, 12, Emilia, 9, and Gwendolyn, 7, and sons Joshua, 13, and Jeremiah, 4, the latter of whomwas not yet born.

James Van Der Beek/Instagram

Speaking to PEOPLE in November 2022, the late actor said thatliving in Texas has been a "centering" experiencefor him and his family. And "for the kids," he said, "it's been grounding, and a different kind of education that we never could have offered them in a classroom."

Since moving, he explained at the time, the family was able toslow down and connect more with both natureand each other. His kids "jump around," he said. "They sing, 'rain, rain come today,' and they run out in it, because we need it."

"It's just connected us, not just to nature, but to the natural life cycles all around us," added the father of six.

In the wake of James' death on Feb. 11, friends of the Van Der Beek family organized aGoFundMe pageto collect donations after James'medical care left the family "out of funds."

The fundraiser, which states it will "help cover essential living expenses, pay bills, and support the children's education,"received over $2.2 million in the first 48 hours.

"In the wake of this loss, Kimberly and the children are facing an uncertain future," the GoFundMe description reads. "The costs of James's medical care and the extended fight against cancer have left the family out of funds. They are working hard to stay in their home and to ensure the children can continue their education and maintain some stability during this incredibly difficult time. The support of friends, family, and the wider community will make a world of difference as they navigate the road ahead."

Kimberly Van Der Beek/Instagram

Never miss a story — sign up forPEOPLE's free daily newsletterto stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer​​, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

The day after the fundraiser went live, the organizersthanked donors "from the bottom of our hearts for showing up for Jamesand his beautiful family" in an update.

"Your kindness has meant more than we can put into words. In the middle of deep grief, your support has been a light. It reminds us that love is real, that community is strong, and that James's spirit continues to bring people together," read the statement posted on the fundraising page.

The statement continued, "Right now, the family is taking time to mourn and be with one another. We kindly ask members of the media and the public to give them space and privacy as they walk through this painful season. Your respect and understanding will give them the room they need to heal."

In the Feb. 12 update, organizers also asked fans to "continue to keep James's wife and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers" and thanked them for honoring the actor's life "with compassion, generosity, and love."

Read the original article onPeople

Analyses of samples taken from Navalny's body have "conclusively confirmed the presence of epibatidine," the statement said. The substance is not found naturally in Russia, it added.

The five countries – UK, Sweden, France, Germany and the Netherlands – said Moscow "had the means, motive and opportunity to administer this poison" to Navalny while he was held in a penal colony north of the Arctic Circle.

Only "the Russian state had the combined means, motive and disregard for international law" to contribute to Navalny's death, they added.

Russian officials have repeatedly denied being responsible for Navalny's death and on Saturday Russian news agency TASS quoted the Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova as dismissing the frog poison claim as "propaganda."

The Russian Embassy to the United Kingdom dismissed the findings as a "political pageant." "As with the Skripal case there are strident accusations, media hysteria, zero evidence, and a host of questions the accusers would rather ignore," a statement from the embassy said.

The embassy claimed that the intention was to "revive a waning anti-Russian fervour within Western societies. If there is no pretext, one is laboriously invented."

CNN has reached out to the Kremlin for comment.

The announcement came during theMunich Security Conferencein Germany, during which Navalny's death was announced in 2024.

At the event two years ago, Navalny's wife Yulia Navalnaya came on stage at the conference in tears and received a standing ovation.

Speaking at the same security conference on Saturday, Navalnaya said: "Two years ago, I was here in Munich. It was the most horrible day (of) my life. I came to the stage and I said that my husband, Alexey Navalny, was poisoned."

In apost on Xearlier in the day, Navalnaya said that she "was certain from the first day that my husband had been poisoned, but now there is proof: (Russian President Vladimir) Putin killed (Alexey) with chemical weapon."

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"I am grateful to the European states for the meticulous work they carried out over two years and for uncovering the truth," she said, adding: "Vladimir Putin is a murderer. He must be held accountable for all his crimes."

When Navalny died, the Russian prison service said that he had "felt unwell after a walk" and "almost immediately" lost consciousness.

He had been imprisoned in an Arctic penal colony since returning to Russia in 2021 from Germany, where he had been treated after beingpoisoned with Novichok, a Soviet-era nerve agent.

Ajoint investigationby CNN and the group Bellingcat implicated the Russian Security Service (FSB) in the poisoning. It found that the FSB had formed an elite team specializing in nerve agents that trailed Navalny for more than three years.

Russia denied involvement then, too, with Putin saying at the time that if the Russian security service had wanted to kill Navalny, it "would have finished" the job.

Navalny, who had organizedanti-government street protestsand used his blog and social media to expose alleged corruption in the Kremlin and in Russian business, was viewed as one of the most serious threats to Putin before his death.

In a2018 interview with CNN, he said that he had a "clear understanding" of the risks involved in taking on the government.

"But I'm not afraid and I'm not going to give up on what I'm going to do. I won't give up on my country. I won't give up on my civil rights. I won't give up on uniting those around me who believe in the same ideals as me. And there are quite a lot of people like that in Russia," he said.

In a statement released on Saturday, British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said that "Russia saw Navalny as a threat. By using this form of poison, the Russian state demonstrated the despicable tools it has at its disposal and the overwhelming fear it has of political opposition."

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was asked at the Munich Security Conference if he feared that Putin would use the same toxins against him. "I don't think about myself because we have already lost a large number of people. I am one of many Ukrainian citizens who continue to fight," Zelensky said. "I cannot think about Vladimir Putin, about his poisons or toxins that he has or had."

The five countries said in their joint statement that they have written to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons about what they called a "Russian breach of the Chemical Weapons Convention."

CNN's Sebastian Shukla, Anna Chernova and Christian Edwards, Svitlana Vlasova and Moriah Thomas contributed to this reporting.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account atCNN.com

German ChancellorFriedrich Merzhas warned of "a deep rift" between Europe and the United States, arguing that the latter "will not be powerful enough to go it alone."

In his address at the Munich Security Conference Friday, Merz urged Europe and the U.S. to "repair and revive trans-Atlantic trust together" in what he referred to as an "era of great power rivalry."

Switching to English as he addressed American "friends," Merz nodded to Trump'scontentious relationship with NATO,insisting that "being a part of [the alliance] is not only Europe's competitive advantage. It's also the United States' competitive advantage."

While he acknowledged that the existing global order has long been flawed, Merz—when discussing the "under destruction" theme of this year's conference—argued the "international order based on rights and rules is currently being destroyed."

He also referenced Vice President J.D. Vance'sspeechfrom last year's conference. Vance drew ire from European leaders when he argued that what concerned him most was Europe's "threat from within... the retreat of Europe from some of its most fundamental values—values shared with the United States of America." He used "free speech" as an example of the values in retreat.

"The culture war of the MAGA movement is not ours," Merz continued. "Freedom of speech ends here with us when that speech goes against human dignity and the constitution. We do not believe in tariffs and protectionism, but in free trade."

The German leader appeared to make further strides to distinguish Europe from the Trump Administration, adding: "We stick to climate agreements and the World Health Organization (WHO) because we are convinced that global challenges can only be solved together."

On Jan. 22, the U.S., under Trump's direction, officially pulled out of the WHO. The move has garnered muchcriticismfrom global health experts.

In response to Merz's remarks, White House deputy press secretary Anna Kelly told TIME: "Friends tell friends hard truths, and the President has also been clear to our European friends that they must follow his lead by ending unfettered migration, reversing'Green New Scam' policies,and moving away from leftist ideology, or risk their own destruction."

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Read More:Trump and Vance May Have Accidentally United Europe

As Europe takes part in ongoing negotiations regarding the hope for a cease-fire in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Merz said he has also started private talks with French President Emmanuel Macron about "nuclear deterrence."

Johannes Simon—Getty Images" style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" />

Merz's concerns echo those made by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in Davos in January. Speaking at the World Economic Forum, Carney argued that the old world order was "not coming back" and encouraged people not to "mourn" the way things used to be. He accused "great powers" of using economic pressure to yield results while urging middle powers to push back.

Carney's remarks were delivered shortly afterTrump threatened to tariff countrieswho oppose his campaign toannex Greenland—a threat he has since walked back. Trump laterlashed out in responseto Carney's speech.

Read More:Carney Hits Back at Trump as Relations Sour: 'Canada Doesn't Live Because of the U.S.'

The U.S. President will not be appearing at the Munich Security Conference. Instead, Secretary of State Marco Rubio will represent the U.S. on Saturday and deliver a highly-anticipated speech.

Rubio also warned of a "new era" in geopolitics as he boarded his flight to Germany.

When asked if his message to Europeans will take a softer approach than Vance's address last year, Rubio told reporters: "The world is changing very fast right in front of us. We live in a new era in geopolitics, and it's going to require all of us to sort of re-examine what that looks like and what our role is going to be."

On Friday afternoon, the U.S. Department of Stateconfirmedthat Rubio and Merz had met in Munich, after the German Chancellor's speech.

"They discussed pressing global challenges including securing supply chains, advancing efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war, and strengthening the partnership between the United States and Europe," said a spokesperson. "The Secretary expressed appreciation for Germany's strong support for Ukraine, including over $76 billion in assistance since 2022, and discussed continued coordination on reconstruction efforts."

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Oman, which welcomed the first round ofindirect talkson Feb. 6, will host the talks in Geneva, the Swiss ministry said, without specifying which days.

After the first discussions, U.S. President Donald Trump warned Tehran that failure to reach an agreement with his administration would be "very traumatic."

Similar talks last year broke down in June as Israel launched what became a12-day war on Iranthat included theU.S. bombing Iranian nuclear sites.

Trump has repeatedly threatened to use force to compel Iran to agree to constrain its nuclear program. Iran has said it would respond with an attack of its own. Trump also has threatened Iran over itsdeadly crackdown on recent nationwide proteststhere.

Gulf Arab nations have warned any attack could spiral into another regional conflict.

Trump said Friday the USS Gerald R. Ford, the world's largest aircraft carrier, was being sent from the Caribbean to the Mideast to joinother military assetsthe U.S. has built up in the region. He also said a change in power in Iran "would be the best thing that could happen."

Theindirect talks on Feb. 6were between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and U.S. Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff. The top military commander in the Middle Eastwas also presentfor the first time.

The Trump administration has maintained that Iran can have no uranium enrichment under any deal. Tehran says it won't agree to that.

Iran has insisted its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes. However, its officialsincreasingly threaten to pursue a nuclear weapon. Before the June war, Iran had been enriching uranium up to 60% purity, a short, technical step away from weapons-grade levels.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has said his nation is "ready for any kind of verification." However, the United Nations' nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency, has been unable for months to inspect and verify Iran's nuclear stockpile.

Trump has suggested in recent weeks that his top priority is for Iran to scale back its nuclear program. Iran has said it wants talks to focus solely on the nuclear program.

But Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who met with Trump in Washington this week, has pressed for any deal to include steps to neutralizeIran's ballistic missile programand end its funding for proxy groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah.

The new animated filmGOATfollows a teenage goat who dreams of becoming a professional roarball player, which is similar to basketball, but played in dangerous, ever-changing arenas.

On top of having a lot of heart and humor, the movie is notable for its outstanding voice cast. From Oscar winners to professional basketball players, the cast is stacked with GOATs (Greatests of All Time).

Leading the cast isCaleb McLaughlinin his first major role sinceStranger Thingsconcluded in December 2025. He's joined by a wide range of talented figures, from actors likeJennifer HudsonandNick Krollto basketball pros likeStephen Curry.

The film even stars husband-wife duoDwyane WadeandGabrielle Union. Since Wade is a former NBA player for the Miami Heat, Union toldCBS Morningthat she used him as a reference when creating her character.

"I studied my husband, and I studied LeBron," she said. "I studied Teresa Weatherspoon, Dawn Staley. I tried to get a lot of how they play, how they were, how they play bigger than they were."

Here, see theGOATcast side-by-side with the characters they play.

Caleb McLaughlin as Will Harris

McLaughlin plays the teenage goat Will, who joins the Thorns, an underdog roarball team. With dedication and help from his team, he becomes a true GOAT of the game.

Most viewers will recognize McLaughlin best for starring as Lucas inStranger Things, which wrapped up at the end of 2025.

On top of the Netflix sci-fi series, McLaughlin has also starred in movies likeThe Book of Clarence(2023) andThe Deliverance(2024).

Gabrielle Union as Jett Fillmore

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty ; Sony Pictures Animation

Union plays Jett Fillmore, a giant black panther who is currently the Thorns' star player.

Her career began decades before joining theGOATcast, and she's starred in hit movies like10 Things I Hate About You(1999) andBring It On(2000), and she led the BET seriesBeing Mary Janefrom 2013 to 2019.

Outside of acting, she's married to Wade, and together they have adaughter, Kaavia. Union also considers herself a parent toWade's other kids, Dahveon, Zaire, Zaya and Xavier.

Aaron Pierre as Mane Attraction

Neilson Barnard/Getty ; Sony Pictures Entertainment/Youtube

Aaron Pierreplays a horse named Mane Attraction, who is the league's MVP and star player of team Magma.

Pierre's first major role came in 2018 when he starred in the Syfy seriesKrypton, which tells the story of Superman's grandfather. He also voiced Mufasa in 2024'sMufasa: The Lion Kingand has a few major upcoming projects, including the DC superhero showLanterns(2026) and the 2027 Star Wars film,Starfighter.

Pierre has a son and was last romantically linked to actressTeyana Taylor.

Nicola Coughlan as Olivia

Neilson Barnard/Getty ; Sony Pictures Animation

Nicola Coughlanportrays Olivia, an ostrich who plays for the Thorns.

She is best known for starring in the hit Netflix romanceBridgerton(2020-Present), and before that she had her breakout role in the Irish comedy seriesDerry Girls(2018-2022).

Bridgertonisn't the only place Coughlan found love, either. Off-screen, she's been in a relationship withactor Jake Dunnsince 2024.

David Harbour as Archie

David Crotty/Patrick McMullan via Getty; Sony Picture Animation

McLaughlin isn't the onlyStranger Thingsalum in theGOATcast.David Harbourportrays the rhino Archie, a single dad who also plays for the Thorns.

On top of playing Eleven's father figure inStranger Things, Harbour is best known for portraying Alexei Shostakov in the Marvel filmsBlack Widow(2021) andThunderbolts(2025).

In 2025, Harbour faced several allegations of misconduct.

First, in October his ex-wife,Lily Allen, releasedher hit albumWest End Girl, which chronicled her unhealthy marriage to Harbour and seemingly accused him of cheating. Then in November, reports suggested that hisStranger Thingscostar Millie Bobby Brown had allegedly fileda complaint about on-set bullyingagainst him.

He attended some, but not all,Stranger Thingsseason 5 premiere events and he and Brown posed for photos together. Harbour has not explicitly commented on the allegations and his reps did not respond to PEOPLE's requests for comment at the time.

Nick Kroll as Modo

Stewart Cook/Sony Pictures via Getty; Sony Pictures Animation

Comedian Nick Kroll portrays the Komodo dragon Modo, who plays for the Thorns.

Kroll started his career as a stand-up and comedy writer, and he's starred in hit series likeThe League(2009-2015). He also had tons of voice roles before joining theGOATcast, including starring inBig Mouth(2017-2025), voicing Gunter in theSingfranchise (2016-2021) and Uncle Fester in the animatedAddams Familyfilms (2019-2021).

Off-screen, he's married to Lily Kwong, andthe couple have two kids, a son and a daughter.

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Stephen Curry as Lenny

Stewart Cook/Sony Pictures via Getty; Sony Pictures Entertainment

NBA star Curry portrays Lenny, a giraffe who plays for the Thorns.

Since 2009, Curry has played for the Golden State Warriors. He's a four-time NBA Champion and scored two consecutive MVP awards in 2015 and 2016.

As an athlete himself, Curry told PEOPLE thathe relates to the story and themes inGOAT. "I relate to the entire story ofGOATbecause a lot of my journey resembles Will's journey." He continued, "Obviously, it's about the power of a team too. No matter what walk of life, you can't do anything great without the people around you.

Off-screen (and off the court), Curry is married to chefAyesha Curry, andthey have four kids: Riley, Ryan, Canon and Caius.

Jennifer Hudson as Louise

Stewart Cook/Getty for NATAS; Sony Pictures Animation

Hudson plays Louise, Will's late mom. He uses her memory and teachings to give himself motivation and confidence.

While she's famous for many films and series, Hudson's biggest achievement is becomingone of just 22 people everto obtain EGOT status – earning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony award.

Hudson achieved this lofty title thanks toBaby Yaga(Emmy), her self-titled albumJennifer Hudson(Grammy),Dreamgirls(Oscar) andA Strange Loop(Tony).

On top of her wins, Hudson is also known for getting her start on the third season ofAmerican Idol, where she made it to the Top 7, and since 2022, she's hosted her own talk show,The Jennifer Hudson Show.

Hudson confirmedher relationship with rapper Commonin 2024 though the pair had already been linked for years. The singer is also a mom to sonDavid Daniel Otunga Jr., whom she welcomed in 2009.

Jenifer Lewis as Florence

Julian Hamilton/FilmMagic; Sony Pictures Animation

Jenifer Lewisportrays the warthog Florence, who owns the Thorns.

She has been starring in film and television since the '80s and is known for leading roles in shows likeStrong Medicine(2000-2006) andblack-ish(2014-2022), and movies likeSister Act(1992) andThe Princess and the Frog(2009).

Lewis is also a celebrated writer thanks to her Book of the Year-winning memoir,The Mother of Black Hollywood(2018), and her essay collection,Walking in my Joy: In These Streets(2022).

Off-screen, she has a daughter named Charmaine.

Patton Oswalt as Dennis

Rodin Eckenroth/Getty; Courtesy of Sony Pictures Animation

ComedianPatton Oswaltplays Dennis, a stern proboscis monkey who is the Thorns' coach.

Oswalt is a widely accomplished comedian; his stand-up specials have earned him three Emmy nominations (winning once), and his comedy albums have scored him seven Grammy nominations (also winning once).

He's also a respected character actor who has held roles on tons of hit shows, likeThe King of Queens(1998-2007),United States of Tara(2009-2011),Veep(2015-2019) andThe Sandman(2022-2025).

Oswalt ismarried to actress Meredith Salenger. Together they raise Oswalt'sdaughter, Alice, whom he welcomed with his first wife, Michelle McNamara, before herdeath in 2016.

Sherry Cola as Hannah

Maya Dehlin Spach/FilmMagic; Sony Pictures Animation

Sherry Colaplays Hannah, a fun and loving aardwolf who is Will's friend.

Cola is a stand-up comedian who had her big break in Hollywood on the showGood Trouble(2019-2024). Since then, she's starred in comedies likeJoy Ride(2023) and has been on the hit Netflix showNobody Wants Thissince 2024.

Off-screen, Cola is in a relationship with fellow actress Marisela Zumbado.

Wayne Knight as Frank

Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty; Sony Pictures Animation

Wayne Knightplays Frank, a grumpy gerbil who is Will's landlord.

He is best remembered forplaying Newman onSeinfeld(1992-1998), and for starring inJurassic Park(1993) andThird Rock from the Sun(1996-2001).

The actor has been married to Clare Knight since 2006. The couple share a son named Liam.

Angel Reese as Propp

Chris Coduto/Getty; Sony Pictures Animation

WNBA playerAngel Reeseportrays Propp, a polar bear who plays for team Shivers.

Reese is a professional basketball player for the Chicago Sky. She also has a burgeoning modeling career, appearing on the cover ofVogueandwalking the runwayas an angel for the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show.

In November 2025, NBA player Wendell Carter Jr.confirmed that he and Reese were dating.

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